The Editor, Sir:

The HIV/AIDS epidemic has had such a grave impact throughout the Caribbean that, according to the year 2000 report of the United Nation Programmes on AIDS (UNAIDS), the Caribbean region is the second most seriously-affected region in the world, after Sub-Saharan Africa.

So serious is the epidemic, that it is seen by the Caribbean Epidemiological Center (CAREC) as the single most important setback to the social and economical development of the Caribbean region.

Here in Jamaica, there is a serious cause for concern. Health officials are seeing a growing number of cases. We must recognise that only through a concerted Caribbean-wide effort, would we be in a position to avert the serious spread of this epidemic, given the fact that the CSME would create free movement of people within the region.

Our Health Ministry must craft and implement more programmes aimed at prevention and behavioural changes and the spread of the disease. And serve as an advocate to reduce the stigma associated with this disease, and generally increase the human rights of people living with the virus.

I am, etc.,

CHARLIE BROWN

Charliebrown1004@hotmail.com

Morant Bay, St. Thomas